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Fire and Gas Mapping Study for Drilling Platform and Living Quarters

Introduction

Fire and Gas Mapping Study is a critical safety assessment used to evaluate detector coverage, identify fire and gas hazards, and optimize Fire & Gas (F&G) detection systems in process facilities.

Early detection of hydrocarbon releases is essential to prevent escalation into major incidents. This study ensures that flame and gas detectors are strategically positioned and capable of detecting credible hazard scenarios under both normal and emergency conditions. The approach focuses on improving detection efficiency, minimizing blind spots, and enhancing overall facility safety.

Project Overview

The Fire and Gas Mapping Study was carried out for the FEED phase of the Kalamkas Sea and Khazar Field Development Project, covering both the Drilling Platform and Living Quarters.

The study evaluated and optimized the F&G detection system using a performance based approach aligned with international standards. Advanced 3D modelling tools were used to assess detector coverage and effectiveness across critical areas. As a result, detector locations were optimized, additional detectors were installed where required, and redundant detectors were removed to improve overall system performance and safety compliance.

Objective of the Fire and Gas Mapping Study

The objective of the Fire and Gas Mapping Study is to ensure that flame and gas detectors are installed in line with the Fire & Gas Detection Philosophy and layout requirements.

The study focuses on improving detection effectiveness by:

  • Evaluating detector coverage across critical areas
  • Identifying gaps in fire and gas detection
  • Optimizing detector placement and quantity

This ensures reliable hazard detection and compliance with performance-based safety requirements.

Fire and Gas Mapping Study Methodology

The Fire and Gas Mapping Study follows a performance based approach in line with ISA TR84.00.07-2018, ensuring that detector placement is based on realistic risk scenarios rather than generic rules.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Flowchart illustrating the Fire and Gas Mapping Study methodology with four stages: hazard identification and risk assessment, consequence and frequency analysis, performance-based design and detector coverage assessment, and system reliability and effectiveness evaluation, shown as sequential steps connected by arrows.
From hazard identification to system reliability, this approach ensures optimized detector coverage and effective risk reduction.

A detailed review of engineering documents such as plot plans, P&IDs, and process flow diagrams was carried out to identify high risk areas. Key equipment including pressure vessels, storage tanks, pumps, compressors, and heat exchangers were analyzed.

Typical scenarios considered include:

  • Hydrocarbon leaks due to corrosion or gasket failure
  • Release events from process equipment
  • Gas accumulation leading to flammable conditions

Each scenario was assessed to understand its potential impact and likelihood.

Consequence and Frequency Analysis

Once hazards were identified, consequence analysis was performed to evaluate fire radiation levels, gas dispersion behavior, and escalation potential. This was supported by frequency analysis using established industry data.

The combined assessment provided a clear understanding of risk levels and helped prioritize critical areas for detection.

Performance Based Design and Coverage Assessment

Based on the risk assessment, performance targets for the F&G system were defined. The existing detector layout was then evaluated and optimized.

Detector coverage verification was carried out using advanced 3D mapping tools to ensure:

  • Adequate coverage of gas release scenarios
  • Effective flame detection across all zones
  • Minimal blind spots in critical areas

This step ensured that the system meets defined performance targets.

System Reliability and Effectiveness

The reliability of the Fire & Gas system was assessed using Probability of Failure on Demand (PFD), considering system components such as sensors, logic solvers, and voting logic.

Overall system effectiveness was evaluated by combining:

  • Detector coverage
  • System availability
  • Hazard frequency

This ensured that the system achieves the required level of risk reduction.

Codes and Standards

The study was conducted in accordance with internationally recognized guidelines:

  • ISA-TR84.00.07-2018 – Guidance on Fire, Combustible Gas, and Toxic Gas System Effectiveness

Key Findings

The Fire and Gas Mapping Study identified several opportunities to improve the F&G detection system. The analysis highlighted areas where detector placement could be enhanced for better coverage and performance.

Key improvements include:

  • Relocation of detectors to improve coverage efficiency
  • Removal of redundant detectors
  • Installation of additional flame and gas detectors in critical zones

These changes resulted in improved detection coverage and overall system effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Fire and Gas Mapping Study plays a vital role in enhancing safety by ensuring optimal detector placement and reliable hazard detection.

By adopting a performance-based approach and advanced modelling techniques, the study improves detection coverage, reduces risk, and ensures compliance with international standards. This enables early hazard detection, minimizes escalation potential, and strengthens overall facility safety and reliability.

Looking to optimize your Fire & Gas Detection System?

Contact us today for a comprehensive Fire & Gas Mapping Study to enhance detection coverage and overall safety.

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